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The best thing that I can suggest is to go and talk to a dealer, even if you have no intention of buying from them. This will help because:

1) They will tell you what you can tow (be careful to confirm this independantly as some are a little enthusiastic).

2) You can look around some vans and identify a layout / style that suits you.

Make sure you leave all bank details etc at home then you won't be tempted to sign up there and then.

You can confirm the details that the dealer gives you by looking at http://www.whattowcar.com

But unfortunately you ned to know what sort of van you want for that site to be a great deal of use.

Good luck

Mike

Hi, welcome to the site that seems able to answer almost any question!

The critical thing you are looking for is the total weight of the caravan, including the items you want to put in it - this is called MPTLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass) - someimtes also called Maximum Gross Weight in older vans.

The MPTLM should ideally be around the 85% mark of the Gross Vehicle Weight of your car, and not exceed what the manufacturer says you can tow - you will need to check your handbook, or someone else with the specs will be along shortly, I am sure. This is really more important than size/length of van, but generally the longer it is the heavier.

There will be a range of vans to suit your car I am sure, and others will no doubt give their thoughts of specific vans.

Hope this gives you some help in the right direction.

Kevin.

Found this For an 04 Astra

http://www.autobytel.co.uk/UsedCars/UsedCarDetail.aspx?publisher_id=frg&Car=257417

Click on Technical specification tab

or here for more info

http://www.cuddles.abelgratis.net/vauxhall.htm#astrae01

The Kerbweight is 1815Kgs and  towing capacity is 1100Kgs so I'm sure there are a few Vans out therer that you will be able to pull. as Viffer97 said look For either MTPLM or Gross weight and these should not exceed 1100Kgs

Take a look here as well http://www.cuddles.abelgratis.net/vauxhall.htm This will give you an idea of your kerbweight and 85%

You look to be at about 1100kg base on the 85% rule.  I guess you will be wanting a 5 berth van.  Lunar and the Bailey Rangers / Discoveries are light weight vans.  You need to decide what Layout you want.  Get along to a dealer and look at all the different vans and layouts, find a layout that suits then find one that is light enough for your tow car.

Good hunting and welcome to the UKCS

If I were you Susie, I'd try & buy through a dealer, you may pay less buying private but you wouldn't have the warranty to go with it.

I don't know what your budget is but when I bought my first van you could get a starter pack from the dealer to go in your van which included everything you needed to hitch up & go.

Just beware of the dealers trying to tell you that you can pull anything on the forecourt with your car. They're there to sell but you'll find a genuine one if you put your cards on the table regarding budget, car & experience.

BB